Making a Positive Change to Energy-Efficient Windows

A big concern for many homeowners has to to with old, outdated or poorly installed windows in their homes. Maintaining an energy-efficient household can be difficult if there are subpar windows that do a poor job of handling weather and temperature fluctuations. Fortunately, there are several options to choose from when considering the change to energy-efficient windows.

Old windows are often ill-fitting, causing drafts that interfere with the temperature inside a home. This causes heating and cooling systems to work harder and longer, adding up the amount of energy they use to maintain a set temperature. Old caulking, frames made from inferior metal, and framing that doesn’t fit snug against a window can all contribute to this problem. Getting windows that are properly fitted, made with better materials and installed by a trained and licensed professional can stop this drain of both energy and money spent.

 

Another energy-efficient method is having double- or triple-paned windows, which is designed to cut down on the temperature differences between the outside and inside of a home. Summer heat can’t pass as easily through to a cooler inside, and winter chill has to go through extra barriers before it can reach the warmth in a home. Other options including glazing, filling the space between the panes with gas, such as argon, and tinting window glass discreetly are also good methods to consider when looking into better energy efficiency within a home.

 

Replacing old or outdated windows not only is energy-efficient, but in the long run it also is cost efficient. Heating and cooling systems won’t have to work as hard to keep a home’s interior temperature regulated, leading to lower utility bills. This puts money back into a homeowner’s pocket, instead of going straight out the window. Cutting costs and energy usage is also better all-around for the environment, making it easier for homeowners to make the decision to change to energy-efficient windows.